U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1991

Stupa Architecture

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Who of the following ruler constructed the 'Sanchi Stupa'?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Sanchi is one of the oldest and most intact Buddhist stupa complexes, established as a major center for relic worship by the Mauryan empire.

Explanation Emperor Ashoka constructed the original brick stupa at Sanchi in the 3rd century BCE. He placed it near Vidisha, the home of his wife Devi. It was later expanded with stone casing and toranas (gateways) during the Shunga and Satavahana periods.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Ashoka is credited with building 84,000 stupas to propagate Dhamma; Sanchi is his most surviving legacy.
Logic 2: While Pushyamitra Shunga and others renovated it, the foundational construction is definitively Ashokan.

Active Recall

Question

What is the function of the 'Chatra' on top of a stupa?

Answer

It is a triple umbrella symbolizing high rank and providing symbolic protection/veneration to the relics within.

Core Insight

Sanchi was chosen for its strategic location near the wealthy trade center of Vidisha, ensuring high visibility for Ashoka's religious message.